2000 Buick LeSabre Review
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By John Rettie

Overview

It's amazing to think full-size cars were by far the most popular cars in the U.S. just 15 years ago. Nowadays sport-utility vehicles attract most of the potential full-size car buyers. Consequently, if you want a large car your choices are limited to a handful of American-made cars and several expensive imported luxury cars.

Buick likes to brag that its LeSabre has been the best selling full-size car every year since 1992. The LeSabre is not a traditional large car because the body is not built on a frame, it does not use rear-wheel drive nor is it fitted with a V8 engine. The only cars left on the market that fit that description are the Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis and Lincoln Town Car.

The Buick LeSabre has been totally redesigned for 2000. It's somewhat hard to tell at first glance, however, because it looks similar to the 1999 model. Buick says more than half of all LeSabre buyers buy another LeSabre, so it did not want to alienate its traditional buyers with something radically different. If you want a six-passenger car with lots creature comforts for a price that could be considered a bargain, take a look at the Buick LeSabre - it's a big car available for a reasonable price.

Model Lineup

Two LeSabre models are available, the Custom and the Limited. Prices range from $22,890 to about $30,000 for a loaded model. The base Custom is far from being a stripped model as it has a long list of standard features: four air bags, air conditioning, four-wheel anti-lock brakes, cruise control, power door locks, power windows, power mirrors, AM/FM stereo, power seat back (front), adjustable steering, automatic level control, theft deterrent system and a power trunk release.

The Limited model adds automatic dual-zone air conditioning, driver information center, upgraded stereo system, remote keyless entry, power adjustable seats and alloy wheels. For those who want better handling, the optional Gran Touring package comes with firmer suspension tuning (stiffer shocks), 16-inch wheels and fatter tires, and a final drive ratio designed for quicker acceleration. Other options include traction control, leather seats, heated seats and a 12-disc CD changer.